Ice Pickles

Prep: 15 min Cook: 1 min

Ice Pickles offer a refreshing twist on traditional pickles with a crisp, tangy flavor enhanced by vinegar, sugar, and turmeric. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a zesty side, they combine crunchy vegetables with a cool, sweet, and spicy profile that appeals to those who enjoy bold, homemade condiments.

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Ingredients

  • 3 trays ice
  • 1 gallon cucumbers
  • 5 cups sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 5 cups vinegar
  • 1/2 cup salt
  • 3 or 4 small onions

Instructions

  1. Put ice over sliced cucumbers and onions; let the ice melt.
  2. Dip the vegetables out of the ice water and drain.
  3. Place the vegetables in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and turmeric.
  4. Cook for 1 minute, then can the pickles.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your ice pickles, consider adding garlic or dill to the brine. If you prefer a sweeter pickle, increase the sugar slightly. For a unique twist, experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider or white wine vinegar. Make sure to use fresh, crisp cucumbers for the best texture and taste.

Serving Suggestions

Ice pickles make a refreshing side dish or topping for sandwiches and burgers. They pair beautifully with grilled meats and can add a crunchy texture to salads. For a fun twist, serve them alongside Peppermint Crunchies(Sugar-Free Candy) for a sweet and savory experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store the ice pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They should last for several weeks when kept cold. If you want to preserve them longer, consider water bath canning to ensure their shelf stability. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ice Pickles contains roughly 1408 calories, with 25g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (218% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (113% of the Daily Value), and iron (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2924mg per serving (127% of the Daily Value).

1408 kcal 70% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 25.3g 51% DV
Total Fat 45g 58% DV
Carbs 241.8g 88% DV
Fiber 31.7g 100% DV
Sugar 30.8g 62% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2923.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 2190mg 47% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 195.9mg 100% DV
Calcium 283.9mg 22% DV
Iron 10.4mg 58% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables for ice pickles?

Yes, you can use a variety of vegetables such as carrots, radishes, or bell peppers. Just ensure they are sliced thinly to absorb the brine effectively. Experimenting with different vegetables can yield interesting flavors and textures.

How long do ice pickles need to marinate?

Ice pickles should ideally marinate for at least 24 hours to develop their flavor. However, for the best taste, let them sit for up to a week in the refrigerator before consuming. This allows the spices and vinegar to fully permeate the cucumbers.

Is it necessary to can the pickles?

Canning is not necessary if you plan to consume the ice pickles within a few weeks. However, if you want to store them for a longer period, canning is recommended to prevent spoilage. Follow proper canning procedures to ensure safety.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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